Which term describes a recurring subject, theme, or idea in a literary work?

The term "motif" fits your question because it refers specifically to a recurring subject, theme, or idea within a literary work. Motifs often serve to reinforce the main themes of the narrative and can manifest in various forms, such as repeated imagery, symbols, or concepts that appear throughout a text. For example, in a novel, a certain color might represent a particular emotion or state of being, appearing in different contexts to deepen the meaning of the story. By continually referencing this motif, the author creates a thread that ties different parts of the work together, thereby enhancing the reader's understanding of the underlying themes.

The other terms provided do not capture the same meaning. "Symbol" refers to an object or action that represents a deeper meaning, but it does not necessarily imply recurrence. "Allegory" describes a narrative that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden moral or political meaning, typically involving broader societal themes rather than specific recurring elements. "Theme," on the other hand, encapsulates the central idea or message of a literary work but is not specifically tied to the repetition that characterizes motifs. Therefore, "motif" is the most accurate term to describe a recurring subject or idea in literature.